"I think, however, nevertheless, that you will keep me with you: I love you so heartily.

Now carry me across to that little island that lies before us.

The matter shall be decided there.

I could easily indeed glide through the rippling waves, but it is so restful in your arms, and if you were to cast me off, I shall have sweetly rested in them once more for the last time." Huldbrand, full as he was of strange fear and emotion, knew not what to reply.

He took her in his arms and carried her across, remembering now for the first time that this was the same little island from which he had borne her back to the old fisherman on that first night.